On the surface, a wedding band may look like a simple circle. But if you’ve ever wondered, what is a wedding band, really?—the answer runs much deeper than metal or materials.

This modest shape carries thousands of years of meaning. Across time and cultures, it has symbolized love, unity, and a lifelong bond. Today, at My Roots Jewelry, we carry this tradition forward through handcrafted wooden wedding bands—natural, sustainable, and deeply personal.

The Origins of the Wedding Band

The earliest known wedding bands trace back to ancient Egypt, over 6,000 years ago. Egyptians viewed the circle as a sacred symbol of eternity, and they fashioned rings from reeds and hemp to honor the cycle of life and love. These rings were placed on the fourth finger of the left hand—the "vena amoris" or "vein of love"—believed to be directly connected to the heart.

While modern science tells us this vein doesn’t exist, the tradition continues as a romantic gesture that still resonates today.

Wedding Bands Through the Ages

As the tradition spread, so did its materials. The Romans adopted the ring custom but used iron to represent strength and permanence. Eventually, gold and silver became popular, prized for their rarity and beauty. Over centuries, the wedding band evolved—but the symbolism remained the same: a visible reminder of invisible promises.

Today, couples are embracing a wide range of designs, choosing bespoke rings that reflect their personality, values, and shared story.

Wooden Wedding Bands: A Return to Nature

At My Roots Jewelry, we craft wedding bands from ethically sourced wood—materials that tell their own story of growth, resilience, and connection to the earth.

Each wooden ring carries its own character. The grain, the texture, even the scent—it all adds to the experience of wearing something truly personal. These bands remind us that love, like wood, grows stronger over time with care and intention.

Learn more about the best woods for wedding bands and what they symbolize.

A Modern Symbol with Ancient Meaning

Choosing a wooden wedding band is more than a style choice—it’s a statement. It reflects a desire for authenticity in a world full of noise. It connects modern love with ancient tradition, grounding your commitment in something real, tangible, and enduring.

Whether you’re drawn to the bold richness of koa wood, the calm simplicity of maple, or the sentimental layering of multiple materials, your ring becomes a wearable piece of your story.

Conclusion: What a Wedding Band Really Represents

So, what is a wedding band? It’s a small circle with a big legacy. It’s a connection—to your partner, to history, and, at My Roots Jewelry, to the natural world.

Each wooden ring we craft carries the marks of time, nature, and intention. And just like the bond it represents, it’s built to last.

Ready to design a wedding band that’s uniquely yours?

Start your custom design or reach out to our team to bring your vision to life.